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How Long Does Protein Powder Last?

How Long Does Protein Powder Last?

By now, you have been introduced to the shelf life of some unavoidable kitchen supplies like baking powder and powdered sugar, but this is about something a little different. 

If you’re the type that likes to exercise, then you have heard the word “protein” at least three times a day. When you visit the gym, you see people around you, pulling all kinds of shakes from their gym bags, and talking about how they have included proteins in their nutrition that day. Recently, this way of nourishment during exercise hours has become very popular among people who regularly visit the gym.

This product has become available in almost every bigger store in your neighborhood because of its recent success. So, you are ready to use it next time you go to the gym, but have you considered the following question – how long does protein powder last?

Protein powder is a significant source of quality protein, and it comes in various forms. Continue reading this article and learn how long this nutrient lasts and how to store and prepare it properly before your next gym appointment.

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How Long Does Protein Powder Last?

Since protein powder is a delicate ingredient, you should consult an expert and become familiar with its shelf life. 

You should pay attention to what you are looking at: an opened or an unopened bag. Although protein powder can last longer if stored properly, some things should be considered when putting this in your kitchen.

An unopened bag of protein powder can sit in your kitchen for 6-9 months after the “best by” date on the back of the package.

An opened bag of protein powder has a slightly shorter shelf life, and it can last up to 3-6 months maximum after the “best by” date.

What Do We Actually Know About Protein Powder?

The very mention of “protein powder” became a trendy topic between doctors, nutritionists, and even people who refuse to include this in their diet. So far, we have just scratched the surface when it comes to this nourishment, but now it’s time we dig a little deeper. 

The first thing you should know is that protein powder is a supplement. What does that mean? It means that this is not the only way you should be feeding yourself. It should not be consumed alone but added to an already prepared meal.

A majority of people need this nourishment for various health reasons. Protein powder is good for athletes, people with digestive problems, and even vegetarians. 

Protein powder is sometimes a must for athletes because they need all the strength they can get. This supplement helps their muscles and the overall diet. People with digestive problems could use this nutrition from time to time because it helps metabolism without seriously harming it. Even vegetarians can find this product beneficial because of their limited consumption of meat.

Top 7 Protein Powders

Before you toss some of this powder into your meal, pay attention to the type that you choose. We are here to give you a helping hand with the top 7 protein powders today:

1.Whey proteinThis protein comes from milk. This type of protein helps build and maintain muscle mass. Whey protein can reduce inflammation and improve heart markers.
2.Casein proteinThis protein is also found in milk, and it is digested slowly. Casein prevents muscle breakdown.
3.Egg proteinThis protein is made from egg whites, and it provides all nine amino acids required for better functioning. 
4.Pea proteinThis protein is made for vegetarians and people who have an allergic reaction to dairy products or eggs. Pea protein increases muscle growth.
5.Hemp proteinThis protein is plant-based, and it is rich in omega-3 acids. Hemp protein is very easily digested.
6.Brown rice proteinThis protein has been around for a long time, and it contributes to muscle strengthening and recovery. 
7.Mixed plant proteinsSome protein powders are made from plant-based sources that are rich in amino acids your body needs. Two or more proteins are usually combined (chia seeds, quinoa, flax seeds, etc.)

Homemade Protein Powders

If you want to improve your cooking skills and make protein powder according to your taste, you are at the right place because here are three super easy ways in which you can make your protein powder:

  1. The first one is of course – plant-based powder. All you need is a mix of chia seeds, hemp hearts, and almond meals. Throw these seeds into the spice grinder, add maca powder, and voila! 
  2. The second one is – dairy-based protein powder. Mix a teaspoon of nonfat dry milk with bulk milk staples and almond meal. Simple, right?
  3. The third and final one is – 2-ingredient green protein powder. Create a super nutritional protein powder by mixing collagen hydrolysate with your favorite green superfood.
Protein Powder Shelf Life

How To Tell If Protein Powder Is Not Good Anymore?

You don’t want to use expired protein powder in your meal. The process of checking whether your macronutrient is still good or out of date is fast and easy.

  • First, take a good look at the protein powder itself. Pay attention to the look and smell. If you spot any mold, this means that your protein powder has been affected by moisture, and you should throw it away immediately!
  • When it comes to the smell, if it has a sour or odor smell– throw it in the trash can!

Protein powder contains some serious amino acids and other ingredients that are dangerous if consumed spoiled.

Shelf Life And Storage Of Protein Powder

Protein powder certainly has an expiration date, but you should know how to store it in your kitchen properly.

The best possible solution is to keep your protein powder in the container it came in. If you purchased high-quality protein powder, it will be packed in a moisture-free container. This will increase its shelf life. 

You must keep your container of baking powder away from moisture and sunlight. 

The shelf life of protein powder depends on whether it has already been used or not. If you are dealing with an unopened bag – 6-9 months after the “best by” date on the package. On the other hand, if you are dealing with an already used protein powder – 3-6 months after the “best by date.”

Can I Use Protein Powder After The Expiration Date?

You have forgotten all about your protein powder, and now you are thinking of using it again in one of your meals. 

Well, this might not be a good idea, after all. 

Over time, protein powder loses its quality and starts to develop a sour smell. The ingredients disappear, and there is not much use in keeping this in your kitchen. Try to resist the urge to try this because it is most likely that this powder developed some bacteria, which could end badly for you.

How Long Does Protein Powder Last – Conclusion

Almost everyone today has at least once tried, including protein powder, in their nourishment. Although many people use this product, they don’t know how to store it and tell if it is spoiled.

Protein powder is a macronutrient used by athletes, vegetarians, and people with digestive problems. Today, thanks to its success, there are different protein powders (whey, casein, plant-based, etc.). If you refuse to go and purchase this product, you can always make your homemade nutrient. 

It is essential to mention that this is not a sole meal but a supplement and that this shouldn’t be consumed alone but added to an already prepared meal. 

Checking if your protein powder is bad can be done fast and easily. All you have to do is pay attention to the look and smell. If you spot any mold or sense a sour smell on your protein powder – it’s time to throw it away!

Storing is also vital because you want to preserve this product for as long as possible. It is best if you keep your protein powder in the container that it came in. Keep it somewhere dark and away from sunlight. 

If you store it properly, an unopened bag will last up to 9 months, and an opened bag will be good for six months. Be careful, don’t use an already expired protein powder because this could end badly for you.